Eugenio "Gene" Quintanilla, age 93 of Hebbronville, Texas, passed away Wednesday, September 25, 2024. He was born December 27, 1930 in Tilden, Texas to Henio and Alejandra Valadez Quintanilla.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Henio and Alejandra Quintanilla; seven brothers, Pablo, Floyd, Trino, Maximo, Henio, Joe; and his son Roberto Quintanilla.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rosa Maria Quintanilla; five children, Rosie (Dwayne) Hofstetter of Kingsville, TX, Terri (Jaime) Alaniz of Los Fresnos, TX, Geno (Pinky) Quintanilla of Hebbronville, TX, Belle (Scott) Cooper of Round Rock, TX, and Ginna (Will) Quintanilla of Boerne, TX; numerous nieces, nephews, fifteen grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren; as well as extended family members.

Gene served in the army from 1950-1953 during the Korean Conflict. He began as a Private E1 and was promoted to a Sergeant in the US Army Eighth Calvary Regiment. He was wounded twice and awarded two purple hearts, several medals and was honorably discharged.

He worked as a contractor building houses for many years in Freer, Texas, then owned his own service station as an Exxon Dealer in Hebbronville, Texas. After his retirement, he enjoyed fishing, woodworking, cooking, and spending quality time with his family. Gene had a unique gift for making everyone feel welcome. His warmth and kindness drew people to him, and he was loved by all who met him. Gene's presence brightened every room, and he left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Public visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at Guardian funeral home chapel, 5922 Crosstown Access Rd. with a Holy Rosary to begin at 12:00 noon followed by Liturgy of the Word. Interment will follow with Full Military Honors at the Coastal Bend State Veterans cemetery 9974 I.H. 37 North Access Rd. at 2:00 p.m.

Having the distinguished honor to serve as pallbearers are his grandsons, Dwayne Hofstetter II, Anthony Quintanilla, Trey Alaniz, Robert Quintanilla, Jason Quintanilla, and Collin Cooper.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Eugenio Quintanilla's name to the Disabled American Veterans charity. You can make a dedicated donation at dav.org.